Bean Stalkin'

Coleman Hawkins' captivating album, Bean Stalkin', is a masterful showcase of the legendary jazz musician's skill and artistry. Released on 1 January 1988 via the esteemed Pablo label, this 46-minute collection of live recordings is a testament to Hawkins' enduring legacy.

Featuring a mix of jazz, bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop, Bean Stalkin' takes listeners on a sonic journey through some of the genre's most beloved standards. The album kicks off with three tracks recorded live in Zurich - the titular 'Bean Stalkin'', 'Indian Summer', and 'Stompin' at the Savoy' - each demonstrating Hawkins' unique ability to breathe new life into classic compositions. The Zurich recordings are followed by 'Crazy Rhythm', another standout track that highlights the saxophonist's technical prowess.

The album's latter half features two tracks captured live in Paris: a rousing rendition of 'Take The "A" Train' and a soulful interpretation of 'Indiana (Back Home Again In Indiana)'. Throughout Bean Stalkin', Coleman Hawkins' expressive playing and the spontaneity of the live setting combine to create an unforgettable listening experience. With its impeccable musicianship and timeless appeal, Bean Stalkin' is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, and a poignant reminder of Coleman Hawkins' status as one of the genre's all-time greats.

Coleman Hawkins, affectionately known as "Hawk" or "Bean," was a titan of the tenor saxophone in the world of jazz. Born in 1904, Hawkins was one of the first musicians to elevate the tenor saxophone to a prominent position in jazz, transforming it from a novelty into a cornerstone of the genre. His virtuosic and emotionally rich playing style, characterized by its vibrato and arpeggiated improvisations, influenced a vast array of musicians, from his contemporaries like Chu Berry and Ben Webster to later legends such as John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins.

Hawkins' career spanned several decades and multiple jazz styles, from the big band era of swing to the pioneering days of bebop. His innovative approach to improvisation and his deep musical knowledge made him a consistently modern and influential figure. Whether you're diving into his early recordings or exploring his later works, Coleman Hawkins' music offers a journey through the evolution of jazz, showcasing his enduring mastery and creativity.